Just like any other building, a roof is an essential part of a warehouse. Although you might not think about it until it bears damage, a roof is the first line of defense against weather events and the elements. If you manage or own a warehouse, you understand the importance of a sturdy and well-functioning roof. But problems can arise if you forget to maintain and clean your warehouse roof amidst tight schedules and busy operations, and eventually, the roof will need to be replaced.
If you’re considering a new roof for your industrial property, it’s important to choose a roofing material that can withstand any weather conditions, including tornado-force winds. In this blog post, we will guide you through the best roofing options for warehouses in Oklahoma.
Roofing Requirements of Warehouses
Warehouses are generally considered industrial settings. Though also used for commercial purposes, they are structured, built, and designed for industrial use, like manufacturing, receiving, storing, and transporting goods. People in the logistics and manufacturing fields need warehouses to safely store their raw materials and finished products. So, when considering warehouse roof replacement, you must be aware of the specific requirements of your building.
1. A Sturdy Roofing Material
You shouldn’t compromise on the quality of roofing materials. A resilient, durable, yet flexible roofing material, like a single-ply membrane, is a great choice. Warehouses are storage buildings, and you wouldn’t want to invest in a roofing material that won’t last. So, when selecting a roofing material for your warehouse, check for its durability, weather resistance, and load-bearing capacity.
2. Waterproofing And Drainage
Gone are the days when warehouse roofs used to be sloped. Since the beginning of the 18th century, warehouses have seen various transformations, including featuring flat roofs instead of pitched ones.
But, one struggle with flat roofs is drainage and waterproofing. Because of their low slope, flat roofs tend to accumulate water on the surface that, if remains unaddressed for a long time, can result in roof leaks. Therefore, ensure proper slope and drainage during installation.
3. Energy Efficiency
Energy-efficient roofing materials are a basic requirement of a warehouse. Various options are manufactured to reflect heat and preserve the temperature within the building.
As you will see in the following sections, many flat roofing materials come with a reflective surface. This reflects a significant amount of heat and UV rays, hence increasing the building’s energy efficiency. Moreover, many warehouse owners incorporate methods like cool roof coatings to increase energy efficiency.
4. Maintenance And Regular Upkeep
When considering a warehouse roof replacement, look for low-maintenance roofing materials. Amidst busy schedules, it can be hard to maintain warehouse roofs. However, if you choose a durable and long-lasting roofing material, it can lower maintenance requirements and the associated costs.
Best Warehouse Roofing Materials To Consider
In this section, we have provided information about the best warehouse roofing materials. We have kept this list short to make decision-making easy for you. Reminder to match the given roofing materials with your warehouse roof requirements.
1. Zinc Metal Roof
With your warehouse roof requirements in mind, zinc proves to be one of the most suitable roofing materials. Not as popular as other options partially due to its higher price point, zinc can give warehouse owners a good return on investment.
Lasting around 100 years, a zinc roof is the epitome of durability, weather resistance, and energy efficiency. And the self-healing mechanism of zinc roofs is incredible. In the course of any weather event, like a hail storm, zinc can self-heal dents on its surface, regaining its original form. This is one of the reasons property owners prefer zinc over copper.
Moreover, zinc is also desired for developing a patina. A patina is the self-healing layer that zinc and copper develop under the influence of air, water, and heat. So, if you wish to invest in a roofing material that lasts around 100 years, self-heal dents, and develop a beautiful patina, zinc is the top option.
2. Built-Up Roof (BUR)
Built-up roofs, as the name suggests, are made of multiple layers of base fabric and asphalt installed together to form a durable, thick, and water-resistant substrate. In addition, it is topped with aggregates like stones and gravel that make it resistant to foot traffic. Moreover, the gravel and stones act as insulation, keeping the building’s interior cooler and balanced.
Built-up roofs have an impressive lifespan of up to 40 years. They are one of the oldest roofing systems, but they are still the top choice of commercial building owners for their reliable durability.
3. EPDM
Ethylene propylene diene monomer, abbreviated as EPDM, is one of a kind of single-ply roof membrane. Single-ply roof membranes are made of different materials within the category of thermoplastic and thermoset. EPDM is a thermoset material – meaning it won’t change under extreme temperatures. Whether it is cold or hot outside, EPDM resists thermal movement, preventing tears and cracks that can occur due to temperature variation.
Besides its natural thermal resistance properties, EPDM is known for its durability and UV reflectivity. Also, it comes with an average lifespan of 25-30 years, giving property owners peace of mind.
4. Modified Bitumen
Modified bitumen roofs are made with layers of asphalt and rubber or plastic that make the material super stretchy and tough. This means it can handle any weather conditions like extreme temperatures, heavy rain, and UV rays.
Another important aspect is that you can customize the installation to fit your warehouse’s needs. Different methods, like torch-applied, hot-mopped, or self-adhered, are available, so you can pick what works best. Plus, because it’s tough, it’s less develop to get holes or tears, which is important for areas with a lot of foot traffic or severe weather like Oklahoma.
Related: Types Of Roof Membranes For Your Flat Roof
Final Thoughts
Before finalizing a roofing material for your warehouse, you must consider some essential factors, including the weather conditions in your area, the complexity of your roof, your location, and personal preferences. Additionally, keep in mind your budget and the potential for savings over time that come with a higher upfront investment.
Before making a final decision, it’s a good idea to consult expert roofers in your area.
Contact The Expert Roofers In Tulsa, OK, For Your Roofing Needs
If you are looking to replace your commercial roof, contact the expert roofers at A. Fricker Roofing and Waterproofing in Tulsa, OK. The roofers at the company are proficient at handling any commercial roofing project, be it a new roof installation, roof replacement, or roof repair. Contact us today at (918) 402-7167 to consult our expert roofers.
